The Rotary Club of Bowen has officially celebrated 71 years of establishment, alongside the 119th anniversary of Rotary around the world.
While the actual birthday of the Rotary Club of Bowen isn’t until June, Club President Helen Woodhouse explained that the Club decided to “tag” along with the 119th anniversary of Rotary as their birthday function.
The group were delighted to see Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, come along to celebrate the milestone.
“The idea of the event was to tag along with the Rotary’s birthday, share the story and legacy of Paul Harris, Founder of Rotary,” she said.
Helen Woodhouse was also awarded with her third Paul Harris Fellow recognition Medal, for her outstanding commitment and dedication to Rotary.
Helen was surprised by the award.
“I never expected it,” she explained.
Being her third Paul Harris Fellows Recognition Medal, Helen said that she is honoured by the recognition, however her work is primarily the promotion of the Club in the Bowen community.
“I have been the President for six years, and in June, I am stepping down.
“When I first stepped up to the job, we only had three members, and now we have nine. It is very important to keep our club going, and I am very honoured by this medal.”
Regular initiatives of the Rotary Club of Bowen include fundraising for Polio research and treatment, fundraising for local schools and for annual school awards, and the upkeep of Rotary Park at Horseshoe Bay.
The Club are also about to launch three Little Free Libraries, to be erected at high thorough fare points in Bowen, for residents and visitors to collect and return novels and literature at no cost.
“We’re a lowkey club, but with an increase in members, we’re excited to increase our efforts.”
If you are interested to join the Rotary Club of Bowen, please contact Club President Helen Woodhouse, on 0439 549 962 or via email bowen@rotary9560.org. Interested parties are welcome to attend their monthly meetings, on the first Saturday of every month.
1. Guests of the Rotary Club of Bowen’s birthday celebrations
2. Club President Helen Woodhouse with Merewyn Wright Former District Governor
3. Merewyn Wright and Helen Woodhouse with Allan Church, Former District Governor. Photos supplied
